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Best Easy Spooky Witch Finger Cookies Recipe for Halloween

witch finger cookies for halloween - featured image

These spooky witch finger cookies look disturbingly realistic but taste like buttery, almond-scented heaven. Perfect for Halloween parties, they’re easy to make with simple pantry ingredients and guaranteed to get a reaction.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup (226g) unsalted butter, softened to room temperature
  • 1 cup (200g) granulated sugar
  • 1 large egg, room temperature
  • 1 teaspoon almond extract
  • 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • 2 1/2 cups (312g) all-purpose flour
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
  • Whole almonds (one per cookie)
  • Red food coloring
  • Small paintbrush

Instructions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, cream together the softened butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy, about 2-3 minutes on medium speed.
  2. Add the egg, almond extract, and vanilla extract. Beat until well combined.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, and baking powder. Gradually add to the wet mixture, mixing on low speed until a soft dough forms.
  4. Preheat oven to 325°F (163°C). Line baking sheets with parchment paper.
  5. Take a small piece of dough (about 1.5 tablespoons) and roll into a log shape about 3 inches long. Taper one end slightly for the fingertip.
  6. Place on prepared baking sheet. Use the back of a butter knife to press knuckle creases into the dough.
  7. Press a whole almond firmly into the narrow end of each finger to create the fingernail. Pinch the dough around the almond to create a cuticle ridge.
  8. Bake for 12-15 minutes until set and just barely golden on the bottoms. Cool on baking sheet for 5 minutes, then transfer to a wire rack.
  9. Once completely cool, mix one drop of red food coloring with a teaspoon of water. Paint a thin line at the base of each almond and at the knuckle creases.
  10. Arrange on a platter and serve.

Notes

For best results, chill the dough for 15-20 minutes if it becomes too soft. Do not overbake; cookies should remain pale. Vary finger shapes for realism. Store in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 5 days.

Nutrition

Keywords: witch finger cookies, Halloween cookies, spooky cookies, almond cookies, shortbread cookies, Halloween dessert, creepy cookies